This is a good simple recipe that does not need much work. As somebody else said, I think two cans of black eyed peas would be better than one. I also seasoned it up a bit with cayenne pepper, chili powder, garlic powder and cooked it with two bay leaves. Usually, I am not the can open/mix everything together person, I was impressed with this recipe.

Reviewer:

Love this! I did do a couple of things different to give it more flavor. I used diced tomatoes that had a mix of chilies in it. Also to make if fit more for New Years I added can collard greens already seasoned. Placed all in crockpot the night before on keep it warm while gone. For 6-7 hours. Cut off when got home got up next morning and cooked on high for 3-4 hours. I didn't add bacon til in my bowl!!

Reviewer:

I have made this super-easy and delicious soup every New Years Day for many years, sharing it with family and friends. The first time I ever made it brought the realization that I just don't care for bacon after after it simmers in soup (i.e.,limp and slimey).
So...for the meat, I substitute a 1/2-inch thick ham steak, well-rinsed*, trimmed, and cut into 1-inch cubes. I still saute the vegetables in bacon drippings, and simmer everything until the ham is done.
*Cut out the center bone, then rinse the whole steak two or three times with water to remove as much salt as possible.
This is my favorite winter soup, and I have yet to encounter anyone who, once they tasted it, didn't like it--even people who say they don't like blackeyed peas! Oh, and I absolutely agree--can't beat cornbread as an accompaniment.
This recipe gets salt from the canned vegetables, consomme and the bacon or ham, so be sure to taste it before adding any more!

Reviewer:

If I still had my food processor it would have been very easy. The people in my family think they don't like green pepper, onion and even celery so I had to chop them in a very small dice. Took a while. I used uncured bacon, 12 oz., instead of a pound. The flavor is really good and that is before I put the bacon bits on to serve. All in all, an easy recipe for good luck in the new year.